SAIL Amsterdam 2025, taking place from August 20 to August 24, 2025, is one of the largest maritime events in the world. During these spectacular days, an impressive fleet of ships sails through the IJ in Amsterdam. And you can be a part of it!
Yes, babies are welcome on board all our cruises. Please note that they count toward the maximum number of passengers permitted on the boat.
No. When renting a self-drive boat, you will receive clear instructions before departure and the boats are easy to operate. Please read the rules that apply on the Amsterdam Canals carefully before going on your trip.
We are open daily from 10:00 to 22:00. Hours may vary during seasonal periods or public holidays. Please contact us to confirm current opening times.
Yes. All our boats are 100% electric. They are quiet, environmentally friendly, and easy to operate.
The total capacity of a cruise depends on the type of boat booked
Self Drive Boat Rentals
Amstel Boat: up to 7 people
Prinsen Boat: up to 8 people
Heren Boat: up to 10 people
Keizers Boat: up 12 people
Private Boats with skipper
The Barbarella: 12 people
Wine tasting cruise: 25 people
Barbecue boat: 28 people
Cocktail boat: 28 people
Beer and bites boat: 30 people
Pizza boat: 30 people
Tapas boat: 30 people
Salon Boats: 50 to 75 people
Public Canal Cruises
Public cruises have a maximum capacity of 30 people.
In addition to the regular boat rental fee, we are obliged to charge city tax at €2.60 per person. This applies to all boat rentals in Amsterdam.
Plastic fishing is only possible when you rent a boat to sail yourself. You can fish for plastic while sailing for a low rate of €3 per person. You will receive all the necessary equipment on board to fish for plastic from the canals during your boat trip, including nets and garbage bags. It’s not only a lot of fun, but also good for the environment!
Yes, we have life jackets for children available. This is free of charge.
Self Drive Boat Rental
Zandhoek 22 (Prinsen & Keizers boats)
Daniël Goedkoopstraat 1 (Amstel & Heren boats)
Private Boat with Skipper
Stationsplein 18, near Amsterdam Central Station.
Alternative departure locations for private cruises may be possible with prior agreement.
Canal Cruise
Only departing from Stationsplein 18, near Amsterdam Central Station.
A one-hour canal cruise with a skipper, highlights of the city, and a complimentary drink. Highlights include the canals, the Amstel River, the Skinny Bridge, and the historic city centre.
Yes. Our public canal cruise includes a QR code on board. By scanning it with your smartphone, you can follow the skipper's commentary in 8 languages: Dutch, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, and Chinese.
Yes, dogs are welcome on board all our boats.
Self Drive Boats
No toilet on board.
Private Boat with Skipper
Only the Barbarella (12 person salon boat) and our larger salon boats for 50 and 75 persons have toilets aboard
Public Canal Cruise
No toilet on board. We advise using the facilities near the departure point before boarding.
Self-Drive Boat Rental
Our self-drive boats are open. Umbrellas may be available in light rain.
Private Boat with Skipper
Our boats can be fully open, partially covered, or fully covered depending on the weather. This will be determined by us prior to departure.
Our saloon boats are fully covered
Public Canal Cruise
Our boats can be fully open, partially covered, or fully covered depending on the weather. This will be determined by us prior to departure.
Most of our boats are not wheelchair accessible. Please contact us in advance and we will do our best to suggest suitable alternatives.
No. WiFi is not available on any of our boats. We recommend using mobile data if needed.
Small bags are allowed on all boats. Large luggage is not recommended due to limited space.
Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before departure. You can find our departure points here so you can plan in advance
Yes. Paid parking is available nearby, but we recommend using public transport where possible.
Self Drive
Our self-drive locations at Zandhoek 22 and Daniël Goedkoopstraat 1 are easily accessible by tram, bus, or metro.
Private Boat with Skipper
Our departure point at Stationsplein 18 is a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station.
Public Canal Cruise
Our departure point at Stationsplein 18 is a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station.
Details are included in your booking confirmation.
Check your confirmation email for directions or contact us for assistance.
Contact us as soon as possible. We will check if your item has been found.
Yes. Self-drive boat rental is very popular among tourists and does not require a license.
Yes, depending on availability and weather conditions you can take the self-drive boats out all year round.
Our self-drive boats are equipped with lights, so you can safely return within your rental time.
We depart from Amsterdam Central Station and cruise for 1 hour, passing by the most popular spots in Amsterdam Center such as The Red Light District, The Skinny Bridge, The Amstel River, Prinsengracht, and Herengracht.
Take a look at our sister company Canal Motorboats. The same friendly service and love for boating for very competitive rates. Reserve a boat quickly before they are all rented out!
Partly. Routes can be adjusted based on your preferences, within local regulations and time limits.
Yes, as long as you do not block traffic or create unsafe situations.
When renting a self-drive boat, you must stay within the designated sailing area shown on your map.
No problem. Contact us and we will guide you. Our boats are also equipped with GPS so we can always locate and assist you.
Yes. When renting a self-drive boat, you will receive a canal map and route suggestions prior to departure.
Yes, babies are welcome on board all our cruises. Please note that they count toward the maximum number of passengers permitted on the boat.
Yes. The municipality can issue fines for violations such as playing music, unsafe boating, or entering restricted areas.v
Yes. Our boat rentals are easy to operate and you receive easy instructions beforehand. Always follow the canal rules and stay alert. These rules can be found on the navigational map provided prior to departure.
No. Swimming in Amsterdam canals is unsafe and not allowed.
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